A Guide to Dog-Friendly Alexandria, VA

Did you know Alexandria is home to the United States’ first president, George Washington? But today, we’re not here to talk about politics—we’re here to celebrate dogs and all the wonderful dog-friendly places Alexandria, Virginia, has to offer. Whether you're planning a doggy day out, looking for trusted local pet care through FurPetVo, or need a reliable Alexandria pet sitter while you explore the city, this guide has you covered.

A skyline view of historic Alexandria along the Potomac River

Dog Parks in Alexandria

  • Simpson Stadium Dog Park: A well-maintained, fully fenced dog run with plenty of friendly locals. Features a separate area for small dogs and usually offers fresh water. Location: 609 E Monroe Ave, Alexandria, VA 22301
  • Montgomery Park Dog Run: Tucked in the heart of Old Town, this compact but lively off-leash area is a neighborhood favorite for pups and their people. Location: 901 N Royal St, Alexandria, VA 22314
  • Founders Park: A peaceful waterfront park with open green space, shaded walking paths, and stunning views of the Potomac. Dogs are welcome on-leash—ideal for a serene sunset stroll. Location: 351 N Union St, Alexandria, VA 22314
  • Monticello Park: A wooded oasis with a gentle creek and nature trails—popular with bird watchers in spring and beloved by dog walkers year-round. Location: 320 Beverley Dr, Alexandria, VA 22305
  • Fort Hunt Park: Just south of Alexandria in the National Park system, this expansive area offers wide-open fields and scenic trails. Dogs are welcome on leash—and there’s plenty of room for fetch, sniffing, and exploration. Location: 8999 Fort Hunt Rd, Alexandria, VA 22308
  • Potomac Yard Park: A modern, clean space with paved trails and adjacent green areas—perfect for an urban-style walk with your pup. Location: 2501 Potomac Ave, Alexandria, VA 22301
Lakeside woodland trail near Alexandria with dappled sunlight and walking path

Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Alexandria

  • Vola’s Dockside Grill & Hi-Tide Lounge: Dogs are welcome on the waterside patio—complete with scenic views, fresh seafood, and complimentary water bowls for your furry companion. Location: 101 N Union St, Alexandria, VA 22314
  • South Block Juice Co.: A healthy refreshment stop offering smoothies and açaí bowls—with a water bowl waiting outside for your pup after a walk. Location: 2121 N Westmoreland St B, Arlington, VA 22213
  • Virtue Feed & Grain: A trendy spot with a spacious dog-friendly patio and even a special dog menu featuring bacon and peanut butter treats. Location: 106 S Union St, Alexandria, VA 22314
Historic colonial-style stone church in Old Town Alexandria

Fun Dog-Friendly Activities in Alexandria

  • The Dog Park Boutique: This Old Town boutique offers high-quality toys, treats, and gear—and welcomes dogs to browse alongside you. Cost: Free entry
    Hours: Mon–Sat 10 am–7 pm, Sun 10 am–6 pm
    Location: 705 King St Suite 100, Alexandria, VA 22314
  • Old Town Alexandria Boutiques: Many stores along King Street welcome leashed dogs (look for water bowls or “Dogs Welcome” signs), and shop owners are known for their warm hospitality toward four-legged visitors. Cost: Free entry
    Location: King Street corridor, Alexandria, VA

Dog-Friendly Walking Trails in Alexandria

  • Potomac River Heritage Trail: A scenic riverside route dotted with shaded benches and water bowls outside local businesses. Ideal for golden-hour strolls, relaxed walks, or longer hikes—with miles of accessible, dog-friendly terrain. Length: ~710 miles (1,140 km) — with easily walkable sections starting in Alexandria
  • Mount Vernon Trail: A beautiful, well-maintained riverside path perfect for long walks, jogging, or biking with your leashed dog. Length: 18 miles (29 km), connecting Alexandria to Mount Vernon

Dog-Friendly Cafés in Alexandria

  • Misha’s Coffee: A locally loved coffee shop with welcoming outdoor seating—ideal for a laid-back morning latte with your pup. Location: 6 Prince St, Alexandria, VA 22314
  • Fontaine Caffe & Creperie: A cozy European-style café with a charming patio where dogs are always welcome—and crêpes are served sweet or savory. Location: 119 S Royal St, Alexandria, VA 22314
  • St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub: A friendly neighborhood hangout with a large outdoor area—great for people-watching and relaxing with your furry friend. Location: 529 Montgomery St, Alexandria, VA 22314
  • Chewish Deli: Known for fresh bagels and deli sandwiches, this spot welcomes dogs at its outdoor tables—and staff often share extra love (and maybe a treat!) with visiting pups. Location: 807 Pendleton St, Alexandria, VA 22314
  • Swing’s Coffee Roasters: A historic Alexandria roaster serving excellent coffee and offering outdoor benches—perfect for a quick caffeine boost with your canine sidekick. Location: 501 E Monroe Ave, Alexandria, VA 22301

Annual Dog Events in Alexandria

Paws in the Park: Celebrate fall with your pup at this beloved annual event held at Oronoco Bay Park. Enjoy live music, local food and drink vendors, shopping, adoptable animals, a Family Fun Tent, and a fun-filled dog-and-human costume contest. Silent auctions and proceeds support local animal welfare initiatives—making it as meaningful as it is memorable.